American Water Spaniel breed information, appearance, care, temperment, and health concerns. What is the American Water Spaniel lifespan and litter size. Where did the American Water Spaniel come from? Read the American Water Spaniel's breed origin, history, and dog breed standard.

Colors: The American Water Spaniel can be solid liver, brown or dark chocolate.

Physical Appearance: The American Water Spaniel was developed in the United States as an all-around hunting dog, bred to retrieve from skiff or canoes and work ground with relative ease. The American Water Spaniel is an active muscular dog, medium in size with a marcel to curly coat.

Temperament/Personality: The American Water Spaniel is intelligent, eager to please and friendly. This dog breed has great energy and eagerness for the hunt yet is controllable in the field.

Care: The American Water Spaniel requires a bi-weekly brushing of it's coat to remove dead hair and prevent matting. Bathe the dog as necessary.

Health Concerns/Problems:

Training: The American Water Spaniel is a great retriever and can be trained to handle any type of game.

Activity: Vigorous exercise is essential for the American Water Spaniel and they should be allowed to swim on occasion. This dog breed is an efficient watch dog.

Life Span: The American Water Spaniel lives an average life of 10-12 years.

Litter Size: The American Water Spaniel has an average litter of 4-6 puppies.

Country of Origin: The American Water Spaniel originated in the USA.

Brief History: The exact origins of the American Water Spaniel are unknown but it is said that their ancestors may have included the Irish Water Spaniel, Old English Water Spaniel and the Curly-Coated Retriever. They were bred to have the ability to be a water retriever and used to retrieve ducks and geese and rabbits. In the early days they were also known as "Poor man's dog" as there was relatively little cost in maintenance.